Should I Double Space A Cover Letter?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You are applying to a traditional, highly formal industry (e.g., law, academia, government) where the employer explicitly requests a double‑spaced cover letter or provides a template that uses double spacing for readability.
• Good fit: You are submitting a printed copy of your cover letter for an in‑person interview and want to leave ample white space for handwritten notes or signatures, making the document easier for a recruiter to annotate.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: The job posting specifies a digital submission format (PDF or email) that follows modern business‑letter standards, which usually favor single or 1.15 line spacing to keep the file concise.
• Warning sign: You are competing for a position where many applicants will send single‑spaced letters, and extra white space could make your document appear less efficient or cause it to exceed page‑limit guidelines.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Improved readability: Double spacing separates lines, reducing visual clutter and helping recruiters scan key points quickly.
• Professional appearance in certain contexts: In fields that value traditional formatting, double spacing signals adherence to established conventions.

Cons

• Increased length: Double spacing can add up to 50% more pages, risking violation of one‑page limits common in modern applications.
• Perceived outdatedness: Many hiring managers view single‑spaced, clean layouts as more contemporary and efficient; double spacing may suggest you are unaware of current expectations.

Decision Checklist

• Does the employer’s job posting or company style guide mention line‑spacing preferences?
• Will double spacing cause the letter to exceed the recommended page count or word limit?
• Is the cover letter being submitted digitally (PDF/email) or printed for a face‑to‑face meeting?

Alternatives to Consider

If you like the extra white space but want to stay within modern guidelines, try using a single‑spaced layout with a slightly larger font (11‑12 pt) and 1‑inch margins, or insert a blank line between paragraphs instead of double‑spacing the entire body. You can also use a 1.15 or 1.5 line‑spacing setting, which offers readability without the full bulk of double spacing.

Final Recommendation

Choose double spacing only when the employer explicitly requests it or when a printed, annotated copy is essential for your interview process. Otherwise, opt for a single‑spaced or 1.15 line‑spacing format with clear paragraph breaks to stay concise and align with contemporary expectations. If you are unsure, default to the tighter layout and be ready to adjust if you receive specific formatting guidance from the hiring organization.

FAQ

Should I Double Space A Cover Letter?

Generally, double spacing is appropriate only when required by the employer or when submitting a printed version for annotation. In most digital applications, single or 1.15 spacing is preferred to keep the document concise.

What should I consider before I Double Space A Cover Letter?

Check the job posting for formatting instructions, assess whether the document will be printed or sent electronically, confirm that double spacing won’t exceed page limits, and weigh readability against modern expectations.